tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75329675246971475502017-07-23T19:53:10.914+09:30My Quest For "the Simple Life"Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-19255836507712568062015-10-25T12:39:00.002+10:302015-10-25T12:39:20.854+10:30Best Made Plans and Newness!<div style="text-align: justify;">Ugh! &nbsp;Organising myself and this family is becoming so much more of a charge than I originally banked on. &nbsp;The younger kids and myself are ok, but I'm getting friction and angst from the older kids. &nbsp;It seems that teenagers do not like toeing the line - who would have thunked it!?!?! &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Besides the family etc I have my tupperware business to try and keep organised and transparent so I know when and where and how long etc etc and then I've also been invited to join a cohort of photographers at The Arcanum which is a great privilege and one I can't really turn down if I want to progress with my photography.. so there's quite a lot going on and that's just for me!!! &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Getting organised is something I NEEEEEEEEED to do... &nbsp;but I really wish I had a magic wand to do it all at once. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So best made plans need adjusting, and newness has added a whole new layer of funness (yes I know there is no such word but I'm using it regardless) into the mix.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh and apparently I'm on the hunt for a new mate for Trixie-Belle as she is running away to look for other doggy friends and she needs one here to help keep her calm and with company... and sheesh! &nbsp;One day life will be calm, and settled and organised and and and.... who am I kidding?? &nbsp;6 kids, running my own business, training, study and kids health needs??? &nbsp;Pfft smooth sailing is a pipe dream :/&nbsp;</div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-46826436546022615842015-10-10T16:57:00.000+10:302015-10-10T16:57:23.658+10:30Up and Down<div style="text-align: justify;">That's life at the moment. &nbsp;I am struggling through some things with the kids... &nbsp;And then Aerynn is currently going through some kind of bug at the same time. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The kids new paed in Adelaide is confident Toby has autism and has booked him an assessment at the end of November, and Miss A and Mr D are also booked in to see an immunologist as As reactions to vaccinations and illness are abnormal and D's never been tested for his allergies. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ahhh life is never boring in this household! &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So end of November I somehow have to find a money tree as the kids appointments alone are going to see me almost $3000 out of pocket! That's not including accommodations, food and transport as all these appointments are 500KM away from home (one way) and spread over 2 days... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">yay!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">*sigh*&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I so need to get myself more organised again. &nbsp;I need to start back with meal planning and working on daily routines - not to mention keeping up this blog to make sure I have some idea on where I am going and have been...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've also started back with Photo a Day again. &nbsp;Started on October 1... so far I'm up to day 9 and not skipped a beat - winning! &nbsp;LOL &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ok, dinner time.. apparently the kids are starving... &nbsp;Hamburgers and salad on the menu for dinner as spring has struck with temperatures in the mid 20's and low 30's *Cs and I'm melting!!! &nbsp;</div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-20811223912049959562015-05-15T22:03:00.002+09:302015-05-15T22:03:56.258+09:30Admission of....<div style="text-align: justify;">Pathetic blog-itis... &nbsp;I think I have a terminal dose of this terrible affliction.... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">BUT I'm hoping now I have what appears to be a more stable internet connection at the moment that maybe I will feel more inclined to hit the keyboard, point the camera and have more to share and record for my family memories preservation sake ;) &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Coming up in the coming days I hope to have a little tutorial using a new pattern by Lorelei Jayne - up cycling some old jeans into a cute new bag... also adding more recipes as I find more that I like and have adjusted for our families tastebuds etc etc</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh and in the meantime, I've not been sitting here twiddling my thumbs.. &nbsp;have been nursing the family through a dreadful dose of a cold... &nbsp;in all seriousness Aerynn and Toby both developed croup with it, Aerynn was particularly bad and suffered for over a week with her croup :( &nbsp;but we are all on the mend at long last :) &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">ummm not sure what else to add. &nbsp;Earlier today I had a great idea for a blog post... i've already forgotten what it was hahaha &nbsp;Ahhh momma brain at it's best ;) &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">now I go and prepare for a tupperware open home I have running all day... hoping that maybe I will have some people drop by and at the very least enjoy some yummy tea, coffee and fresh from the new oven scones with jam and cream ;) &nbsp;:D&nbsp;</div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-15360585978230214582015-04-25T00:24:00.004+09:302015-04-25T00:30:53.359+09:30ANZAC 2015, 100 years on...<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>War does not end when the soldier returns or the ceasefire is called.&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>War lives on in the shadows of memories.&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>It is passed down through the generations.&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>It touches more than just the individuals who experienced its horror.&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>War serves it's purpose,&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>but war has a very expensive price.&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>This ANZAC day we remember,&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>and we honour.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>Those who fell,&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>Those who returned and&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>Those who serve.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>&nbsp;Thank you for our freedom and our country.&nbsp;</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>Lest We Forget.</i></span></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-1493138338696034432015-04-15T23:52:00.001+09:302015-04-15T23:52:34.706+09:30MENU PLAN: April 16th - 22nd<div><b><span style="font-size: large;">MENU PLAN: April 16th - 22nd</span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div><ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Thursday:&nbsp;</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.trtlmt.com.au/thai-coconut-chicken-parcels/" target="_blank">Thai Coconut Chicken Parcels</a></li><li>&nbsp;<b>Friday:</b>&nbsp;Tacos</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Saturday:</b>&nbsp;</li><ul><li>Lunch -&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2015/04/savoury-scones.html" target="_blank">Savoury Scones</a></li><li>Dinner - &nbsp;Homemade Pizza</li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Sunday:</b></li><ul><li>Lunch -&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2010/09/pancakes.html" target="_blank">Pancakes</a></li><li>Dinner - &nbsp;Roast Chicken with Roast Veg</li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Monday:&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/main-dishes-meat-recipes/mongolian-beef/201786" target="_blank">Mongolian Beef</a>&nbsp;(version 2)&nbsp;with noodle stir fry</li><li><b>&nbsp;Tuesday:</b><b>&nbsp;&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.trtlmt.com.au/savoury-mince-red-lentils/" target="_blank">Savoury Mince and Red Lentils</a></li><li>&nbsp;<b>Wednesday: &nbsp;</b><a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2009/01/sweet-aromatic-chicken.html" target="_blank">Sweet Aromatic Chicken</a><b>&nbsp;</b>with Steamed Veg<br /><br /><div><b>** Back up meal</b>: &nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/lasagne.html" target="_blank">Lasagne</a>&nbsp;with homemade wedges</div></li></ul></div><br /><div><ul><li>Snacks/Recess: <a href="http://www.trtlmt.com.au/chocolate-teeny-teddies/" target="_blank">Teeny Teddies</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/baking-savoury-recipes/little-party-savouries/17400" target="_blank">Mini Savoury Pies</a></li></ul></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-56019180421747964172015-04-10T00:19:00.000+09:302015-04-10T10:44:26.862+09:30Where Did I Go Wrong?<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the still of the night the silence is deafening... &nbsp;</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">the mind races... &nbsp;</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">there are a few constants.&nbsp;</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">the little breaths of sleeping children,&nbsp;</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">the occasional snores&nbsp;</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">and the ringing of cat collar bells</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">&nbsp;as they adjust themselves for their nights sleep&nbsp;</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">or prowling;&nbsp;</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">whichever the case may be...&nbsp;</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">all the while,</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">inside the racing mind one question appears to be on repeat...&nbsp;</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">"where did I go wrong?"&nbsp;</span></i></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-24399333621661886382015-04-07T19:14:00.000+09:302015-04-07T19:14:14.384+09:30Menu Plan... April 9th - 15th 2015<div><b><span style="font-size: large;">MENU PLAN: April 9th - 15th</span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div><ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Thursday:&nbsp;</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/lasagne.html" target="_blank">Lasagne</a>&nbsp;with homemade wedges</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Friday:</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://skinnymixers.com.au/2014/10/skinnymixers-butter-chicken/" target="_blank">Butter Chicken&nbsp;</a>with Coconut Satay Basmati Rice</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Saturday:</b>&nbsp;</li><ul><li>Lunch - <a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2015/04/savoury-scones.html" target="_blank">Savoury Scones</a></li><li>Dinner -&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/main-dishes-meat-recipes/mongolian-beef/201786" target="_blank">Mongolian Beef</a>&nbsp;(version 2)&nbsp;with&nbsp;<a href="http://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/vegetables-recipes/stir-fried-vegetables/" target="_blank">Stir fried Veg</a></li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Sunday:</b></li><ul><li>Lunch - <a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2010/09/pancakes.html" target="_blank">Pancakes</a></li><li>Dinner - &nbsp;Roast Beef with Steamed Veg</li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Monday: </b><a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2009/01/sweet-aromatic-chicken.html" target="_blank">Sweet Aromatic Chicken</a><b>&nbsp;</b>with Steamed Veg</li><li><b>&nbsp;Tuesday:</b><b>&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/16053/porcupine+meatballs" target="_blank">Porcupines</a>&nbsp;with Mash</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Wednesday: &nbsp;</b>Chicken Mignons with Steamed Veg<br /><br /><div><b>** Back up meal</b>: &nbsp;Spaghetti Bolognaise</div></li></ul></div><br /><div><ul><li>Snacks/Recess:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://bakeat350.blogspot.com.au/2008/04/taste-of-yellow-yellow-rose-sugar.html" target="_blank">Biscuits</a>, <a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/baking-savoury-recipes/little-party-savouries/17400" target="_blank">Mini Savoury Pies</a></li></ul><div><b><br /></b><b>** Mini Mamabake Saturday and Sunday:</b>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://www.wholefoodiekitchen.com/2012/07/chicken-stock-paste.html" target="_blank">Chicken Stock Concentrate</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/basics-recipes/beef-stock-concentrate/79073" target="_blank">Beef Stock Concentrate</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/main-dishes-others-recipes/vegetable-stock/175346" target="_blank">Vege Stock</a>&nbsp;and &nbsp;<a href="http://mamabake.com/2014/10/18/10-home-made-dry-mix-recipes-never-buy-a-packet-again/" target="_blank">Dry Mixes&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;(Taco Mix, Gravy Mix, Choc Brownie Mix, Hot Choc Mix and Ovaltine Mix)</div></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-41530441440416971852015-03-26T17:27:00.000+10:302015-03-26T17:27:13.111+10:30I've Been Sewing Again!!!<div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">A new pattern from&nbsp;<b><a href="http://www.loreleijayne.com/" target="_blank">Lorelei Jayne</a></b>&nbsp;and it's a beauty!!!</span></div><div style="text-align: start;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e7bAnWtr4RM/VROoIJvQVvI/AAAAAAAAE7c/5nQstsNbFlQ/s1600/bag%2B2%2BWM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e7bAnWtr4RM/VROoIJvQVvI/AAAAAAAAE7c/5nQstsNbFlQ/s1600/bag%2B2%2BWM.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">the BG Bag</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: start;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="text-align: justify;"><b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/227518958/bg-bag-pdf-sewing-pattern-handbag-and?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">The BG Bag</a>&nbsp;</b>was released on Etsy last night and I believe it's going to be a winner for this little cottage business. &nbsp;I found it very easy to follow and make up. &nbsp;To be honest the most time consuming and complicated part of the creative process was getting my iron hot enough to iron the interfacing to my selected fabric. Yup it really is THAT easy!! &nbsp;And besides easy it is versatile.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="text-align: start;"><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ezktE0e7f4s/VROoGy-gWKI/AAAAAAAAE7U/eMnM2rVHnZM/s1600/Open%2BWM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ezktE0e7f4s/VROoGy-gWKI/AAAAAAAAE7U/eMnM2rVHnZM/s1600/Open%2BWM.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Next model will have the magnetic closure <br />a little higher - personal preference ;)</td></tr></tbody></table>When you purchase the pattern it not only includes the handbag pattern that I made and have pictured here,&nbsp;<span style="text-align: center;">but also a beach bag size which can easily be converted for multiple uses... &nbsp;I'm thinking with the addition of some simple pockets you can have a basic nappy bag, and then with or without pockets you have a WIP (work in progress) craft keeper, knitting/crochet bags with oodles of room to store your projects as well as the pattern, needles, hooks, &nbsp;additional supplies etc... &nbsp;As a beach bag there is plenty of room inside for a towel, change of cloths, thongs (or flip-flops, jangles, etc whatever they are called in your part of the world) and sunscreen.&nbsp;</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-quCHefw0u-k/VROoJX1jA1I/AAAAAAAAE7k/pob0YHaODh8/s1600/bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-quCHefw0u-k/VROoJX1jA1I/AAAAAAAAE7k/pob0YHaODh8/s1600/bag.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the BG bag with matching lavender scented Key Fob</td></tr></tbody></table>The bag is easy to accessorise as well. There are instructions for a magnetic closure. &nbsp;It is able to be completed to be fully reversible and with a little tweaking you can change the handles to attach with D rings for a little added personality. &nbsp;I made a little key fob to go with my bag which I filled with some beautiful dried heads of organic lavender - it really does smell divine!!!<br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: start;"><br /></div><div></div><div>In summary I am absolutely loving this design and pattern. &nbsp;I can't wait to get stuck into making some more and experimenting. &nbsp;I'm planning to make myself a new handbag after my lovely black and white expensive number recently died. &nbsp;I'm also going to make something a little less restrained for my teenage daughter and a few craft bags and a nappy bag... &nbsp;Oh my "to-do" list keeps growing and growing!!! &nbsp;Actually, I think a trip to spotlight may just be added to my "to-do" list for tomorrow so I can select the perfect fabric for my next BG Handbag ;)</div></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-52248530992197700622015-01-31T20:29:00.002+10:302015-01-31T20:29:28.060+10:30New Beginnings?It would appear the sense of unease I was feeling not that long ago may have had a good reason. &nbsp;My husband of 17 years up and walked out on myself and our 6 children Wednesday just gone. <br /><br />As of January 29, 2015 I am now a single mother of 6 additional needs children. <br /><br />I'm scared. <br /><br />I'm empty.<br /><br />I'm trying to hold it all together and be strong for the children.<br /><br />But I know I am going to crumble eventually. <br /><br />At the moment I am holding on so tight to my new job as a tupperware demonstrator to help bring in some much needed income to our new family and desperate to try and stay as calm and transparent as possible. <br /><br />We have had no contact with my husband since Wednesday. &nbsp;He left with a simple text message saying he was coming to pick his things up, and nothing since then. &nbsp;He didn't even turn up to care for the children when I had to go do my first training demonstration. <br /><br />I am hurt beyond belief. <br /><br />My trust is shattered. <br /><br />My faith is crumbling.<br /><br />My self confidence is zilch.<br /><br />Hoping that we come through this in one piece and somehow find some strength and positives inside this new speed bump in our lives path.<br /><br /><br />Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-74883340681085195752015-01-15T12:53:00.001+10:302015-01-15T12:53:13.700+10:30Crossroads...<div style="text-align: justify;">I don't know what is happening. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have a great feeling of unease and I feel it's starting to eat me up from the inside. &nbsp;I don't know where it's coming from or why... &nbsp;Just have a feeling that there are some important decisions to make... &nbsp;but what are they? &nbsp;What choices to make? &nbsp;What? where? why??? &nbsp;I just don't know... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I feel like I'm at a crossroads, but I can't see what way I should be headed, I can't see anything, but meant to be making a decision to take a path... what path? &nbsp;where? when? why? &nbsp;I just don't know... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It does;t even seem to make any sense when I write it down, let alone in the jumbled confusion that is my head at the moment. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I just know that things aren't as they should be now, and I need to make some choices to set them straight... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I only wish I knew what the choices were and what the variables are and what is expected of me... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Like I'm turning up to school for a regular day, only to discover it's the end of year and exam time and I've not even finished the classes, let alone studied for the exam and I'm meant to come out with straight A's as per usual... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Drowning? &nbsp;Is that a decent description? &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">just mulling things over... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I mean, there are some options I can see, but not sure if they are real options or if I'm grasping at something because it's just a life bouy dangling in front of a drowning person, tied with a piece of string to the lifeline... but if it is grabbed, it will the string snap? &nbsp;Is it really the choice or decision life is asking me to consider at the moment? &nbsp;I just don't know... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Seriously, this feeling of unease, confusion, unsettledness is churning so much, weighing on my mind... I could curl up in a corner and cry from the pressure to do the right thing when not knowing what even the wrong thing is... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br />Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-64292425943495821002015-01-12T10:30:00.000+10:302015-01-15T12:45:26.995+10:30Menu-Planning: Monday Jan 15th-22nd<div><b><span style="font-size: large;">MENU PLAN: January 15th - 22nd</span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div><ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Thursday:&nbsp;</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.quirkycooking.com.au/2011/05/sue-ellens-singapore-noodles/" target="_blank">Singapore Noodles</a></li><li>&nbsp;<b>Friday:</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://skinnymixers.com.au/2014/10/skinnymixers-butter-chicken/" target="_blank">Butter Chicken </a>with Coconut Satay Basmati Rice</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Saturday:</b>&nbsp;</li><ul><li>Lunch - Sandwiches</li><li>Dinner - <a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/main-dishes-meat-recipes/paleo-mongolian-beef/174786" target="_blank">Mongolian Beef</a> with <a href="http://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/vegetables-recipes/stir-fried-vegetables/" target="_blank">Stir fried Veg</a></li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Sunday:</b></li><ul><li>Lunch - Pancakes</li><li>Dinner - &nbsp;Silverside with Steamed Veg</li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Monday:</b>&nbsp; <a href="http://www.theklutzycook.com/2012/06/curried-cabbage-mince/" target="_blank">Curried Cabbage Mince</a> with Steamed Veg</li><li><b>&nbsp;Tuesday:<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/lasagne.html" target="_blank"> </a></b><a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/lasagne.html" target="_blank">Lasagne</a> with homemade wedges</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Wednesday: &nbsp;</b>Chicken Mignons with Steamed Veg<br /><br /><div><b>** Back up meal</b>: &nbsp;BBQ with Potato Salad</div></li></ul></div><br /><div><ul><li>Snacks/Recess:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/the-best-banana-bread-ever.html" target="_blank">Banana Bread</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://bakeat350.blogspot.com.au/2008/04/taste-of-yellow-yellow-rose-sugar.html" target="_blank">Biscuits</a></li></ul><div><b><br /></b><b>** Mini Mamabake Saturday and Sunday:</b>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://www.wholefoodiekitchen.com/2012/07/chicken-stock-paste.html" target="_blank">Chicken Stock Concentrate</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/basics-recipes/beef-stock-concentrate/79073" target="_blank">Beef Stock Concentrate</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/main-dishes-others-recipes/vegetable-stock/175346" target="_blank">Vege Stock</a>&nbsp;and &nbsp;<a href="http://mamabake.com/2014/10/18/10-home-made-dry-mix-recipes-never-buy-a-packet-again/" target="_blank">Dry Mixes&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;(Taco Mix, Gravy Mix, Choc Brownie Mix, Hot Choc Mix and Ovaltine Mix)</div></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-52935278783307765332015-01-11T14:15:00.002+10:302015-01-11T14:15:20.610+10:30Planning... planning.... planning...<div style="text-align: justify;">2015 has already been a bit of a roller coaster. &nbsp;We have had bushfires locally, been packed ready to evacuate over a couple of days of unrest with a bushfire around 20kms form us which was a very real threat to property and life (it is still burning with flare ups, but contained) and now the post Christmas/New Year depression has hit.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So trying to get out of this funk with a bit of planning and setting some goals for the year... and failing miserably. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I don't want to set hard and fast goals, things that are flexible and allow for our complicated family life. &nbsp;We have no idea what is going to eventuate from Miss A's MRI in March for example so quite simply can not set things too firmly.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I do know that I want to start taking some time for me. &nbsp;I don't mean that to be selfish, but I seem to have lost myself in being the main carer for the family, allowing the husband to do what he wants and trying to be firm but flexible with the teenage children... in all that i have not allowed myself anything for me! &nbsp;I did start my diploma of web design, which was novel for the first week when mum was studying, but being able to find an hour where i'm uninterrupted, not being called for, not dealing with a spat, a cut knee, a spilled drink, a meltdown etc etc has proven impossible. &nbsp;At this stage I don't know if it will be possible to complete my diploma. &nbsp;Which is probably contributing to the blues I am feeling at the moment. I hate starting something and not being able to finish or proceed. &nbsp;I hate admitting defeat... I'm probably too stubborn :/ &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I also want to sew more. &nbsp;I'm currently trying to construct a new diary cover. &nbsp;Complete with card slots for appointment cards, a few hidden pockets for receipts and a closing pocket for other bits and pieces that seem to accumulate in my diary. &nbsp;The plan is in my head, but putting it into action has been a little more complicated than I though... especially when I usually have Toby trying to help with the sewing machine foot control, And trying to juggle the hot iron so it doesn't burn any curious little fingers or noses (yes noses... no idea why but apparently the smell of the iron is fascinating!!!)&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Scrapbooking is not going to be a thing of the past. &nbsp;I really want to find my desk and get a layout or three completed. &nbsp;I have to dig it out from under the toys and storage boxes, but I know it is there.. I'll also need to do a stocktake on adhesives and a few other things I know the kids have helped themselves to ;) &nbsp;But it's going to be done. &nbsp;I just want to be able to create again!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And I also want to keep up with the blog. &nbsp;Not that I have anything earth shattering to share etc, but it's kinda therapeutic and looking back over time seeing how our family and lives have evolved is important to me. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So a few things I want to achieve in 2015... &nbsp;There are some other things I really want to do, like get a preserving kit and become all homesteadish but that's something that may or may not happen. &nbsp;but for now, these are the aims for 2015 which may actually be somewhat achievable. &nbsp;Looking at my diary filling up with appointments it looks like it will be tough to fit it all in, but where there's a will, there is alway a way ;) &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br />Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-69114503967509553832014-12-27T20:45:00.002+10:302014-12-27T20:45:57.829+10:30Merry Christmas and a Wonderful 2015<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">from our home to yours :) &nbsp;</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEbIt3TY3RM/VJ6GwJBJxDI/AAAAAAAAE2Y/XZcZohv1i_k/s1600/10849003_10152643094933717_8642708932975644843_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEbIt3TY3RM/VJ6GwJBJxDI/AAAAAAAAE2Y/XZcZohv1i_k/s1600/10849003_10152643094933717_8642708932975644843_o.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div><br />Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-54516450845508907292014-12-11T12:08:00.000+10:302014-12-11T12:09:35.174+10:30The Little Girl Bag<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a8l6td7UnnU/VIjyLRmX_QI/AAAAAAAAEzQ/suyy7Sz8x_k/s1600/1%2BWM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a8l6td7UnnU/VIjyLRmX_QI/AAAAAAAAEzQ/suyy7Sz8x_k/s1600/1%2BWM.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>&nbsp; &nbsp;The Little Girl Bag</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: right;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: right;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;designed by Lorelei Jayne</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8wxWEmLchY/VIjyQMGvUgI/AAAAAAAAEzY/cJtWkOY-8So/s1600/4%2BWM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8wxWEmLchY/VIjyQMGvUgI/AAAAAAAAEzY/cJtWkOY-8So/s1600/4%2BWM.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>This week I was given the opportunity to be a test sewer for a pattern which was re-launched today. &nbsp;<a href="http://www.loreleijayne.com/2014/12/little-girl-bag-relaunched.html" target="_blank">The Little Girl Bag</a> by Lorelei Jayne is just sooo cute!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">It's a quick sew (I made it in an hour with all the interruptions 6 children are likely to give) and very easy to follow. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mdM9qL2izBo/VIjyI-U2gjI/AAAAAAAAEzE/hY5VFznCEmE/s1600/3%2BWM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mdM9qL2izBo/VIjyI-U2gjI/AAAAAAAAEzE/hY5VFznCEmE/s1600/3%2BWM.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><br /></div>This bag is fully lined and can be made from a whole range of fabrics. <br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hY8JkXOuMkk/VIjyICBeGJI/AAAAAAAAEzA/lSHqwcl9YCg/s1600/2%2BWM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hY8JkXOuMkk/VIjyICBeGJI/AAAAAAAAEzA/lSHqwcl9YCg/s1600/2%2BWM.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mix and match the pieces in complimentary fabrics or add some embellishments for a bag fit for a princess. &nbsp;Oh and boys don't miss out either - make it out of plain or boyish fabrics and it is a versatile bag for carrying matchbox cars or blocks or even filling with dirt (as our Toby loves to do)&nbsp;</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Seriously a very easy pattern, quick sew, multiple uses and design applications and FREE!!!! &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Check it out on the Lorelei Jayne Blog <a href="http://www.loreleijayne.com/2014/12/little-girl-bag-relaunched.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> &nbsp;or on their FB Page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/loreleijayne?fref=ts" target="_blank">HERE</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-78957553597321673792014-12-11T11:27:00.001+10:302014-12-11T11:27:11.373+10:30Crafty Time :)<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit;">I'm making a more concerted effort to do some "me" things... one of these things is crafty stuff.. sewing, knitting, scrapbooking etc etc... &nbsp;Some ties in with a little business venture which will formally launch early 2015. &nbsp;It's something that I really feel soothes my soul and allows me to be more me (that probably does't make much sense)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6rleF0-7yw/VIjqUO-vocI/AAAAAAAAEyQ/cC7WYrPH9j4/s1600/10463020_10152576287578717_1198514405179303651_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6rleF0-7yw/VIjqUO-vocI/AAAAAAAAEyQ/cC7WYrPH9j4/s1600/10463020_10152576287578717_1198514405179303651_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></span></a><span style="color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So I unpacked my new sewing machine a couple of weeks ago. &nbsp;It's nothing flash, a spotlight rebranded machine - Elna 40 (rebranded Janome Magnolia or Janome 8077 - there are differing views) and started cutting into my precious m</span>inky<span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp;to make&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">Toby a&nbsp;tag blanket. &nbsp;He has a fascination for tags, rubbing them, threading them onto his fingers or just stroking them when falling asleep... &nbsp;he will scout them out to help sooth him - to the point that I found him snuggling up to a pair of Aerynns knickers one day, stroking their size tag!!!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZjrAM-srDc/VIjqVtvI7CI/AAAAAAAAEyk/OF3uUREUHGE/s1600/10702145_10152552182348717_8938053038290237344_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZjrAM-srDc/VIjqVtvI7CI/AAAAAAAAEyk/OF3uUREUHGE/s1600/10702145_10152552182348717_8938053038290237344_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></span></a><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">Well one blanket evolved from under the sewing machines foot...&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">and Toby LOVED it! &nbsp;a smallish, patchwork blue minky one one side,&nbsp;quilting cotton the other with&nbsp;numerous different size,&nbsp;thickness and width tags on its outer edges. &nbsp;I fastened a ribbon tag with a snap on it so the blanket can also be secured to prams and&nbsp;trolls for added reassurance it&nbsp;won't be lost. &nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eDhPJHC3dH0/VIjqV7tScmI/AAAAAAAAEys/dR1sa2mtmpc/s1600/1723332_10152578003358717_4918530057335431569_n.jpg" height="320" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tag blanket getting the snooze of approval, Adelaide Nov 2014</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eDhPJHC3dH0/VIjqV7tScmI/AAAAAAAAEys/dR1sa2mtmpc/s1600/1723332_10152578003358717_4918530057335431569_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit;"></span></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ol2BPJ-JByI/VIjqUbiid-I/AAAAAAAAEyU/Hgnqy3NQ3F0/s1600/10670242_10152552552653717_7609390432033076269_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ol2BPJ-JByI/VIjqUbiid-I/AAAAAAAAEyU/Hgnqy3NQ3F0/s1600/10670242_10152552552653717_7609390432033076269_n.jpg" height="252" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">I thought all was well until Miss Aerynn spotted Toby's new blanket... and insisted she needed one too! &nbsp;And in princess pink - seriously, she is such a little princess and pink is her favourite colour! So out came the minky stash, scissors and within an hour Miss A had her own matching Taggie blanket :) &nbsp;</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">Two very happy little&nbsp;kidlets... and I swept out some of the cobwebs which my creative bug was starting to drown in :) &nbsp;Now to do Domeniks minecraft&nbsp;weighted blankets, weighted toy, santa sacks for everyone, maybe a few other little projects in between... oh and&nbsp;starting on&nbsp;building up a supply of bits and&nbsp;pieces for the&nbsp;launch of "The Simple Life" online store - opening 2015!</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IFZ7W6Cm2EI/VIjqUcCxVAI/AAAAAAAAEyY/I1dRk3LD_JA/s1600/10653836_10152552439953717_8986207264384632488_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IFZ7W6Cm2EI/VIjqUcCxVAI/AAAAAAAAEyY/I1dRk3LD_JA/s1600/10653836_10152552439953717_8986207264384632488_n.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="color: #282828; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></span></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-4658324221193179272014-12-11T10:23:00.003+10:302014-12-11T10:59:54.158+10:30Quick Update...<div style="text-align: justify;">It's been almost a month since I last posted and so much has happened. &nbsp;At the moment I am completely exhaustipated (yup it's a word - even if I made it up it's a real word hehe) We have had 2 trips to Adelaide, numerous specialist appointments, therapy sessions, blood tests, EEGs, risks, diagnosis and head scratches in these last 3-4 weeks.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Miss A and Mr T have both had a genetic work up and have had bloods taken and sent off all around the world to see if there are any genetic reasons for their situations. &nbsp;Toby is physically a perfect specimen of a 20 month old boy, but there are no obvious reasons for why he is not talking. &nbsp;He is communicating, and very social and an absolute delight, but not one single real word. &nbsp;He has attempts and has a few babbles, but no words. &nbsp;He is carrying on his sisters tradition of stumping the medical fraternity so it seems ;) &nbsp;His speech therapist is keen to have a sedated ABR test done (its for hearing) to completely rule out hearing issues. &nbsp;That's not to say that if he passes it that it isn't hearing in a non-sterile world (basically saying background noises cause confusion with the sounds meaning he can hear but not really interpret or make out what he is hearing). &nbsp;The general consensus is that it is to autism related, but my gut is starting to twitch at that possibility.. he has started head banging from frustration and biting, and when we lit up the Christmas lights he started running in circles and flapping his hands with excitement... not much in the scheme of things, but possible traits nonetheless.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Miss A, well.. Aerynn, what can I say? &nbsp;lots of worry and concerns there due to her headaches escalating to migraines and now seizures. &nbsp;She has seen a neurologist and had an EEG which came back clear - however, he still suspects she has epilepsy, something called a partial absence seizure, which apparently don't show on EEGs. &nbsp;We are to try and record the seizures she is having and sent the video to him for confirmation. &nbsp;Once has has this she will start on medication. &nbsp;The other possibility isn't so nice... she is being booked in for a sedated MRI early 2015 to rule out a possible brain tumour. &nbsp;The dr reassures us that her pattern of migraines etc is not indicative of a tumour (phew) but it needs to be ruled out for our peace of mind. &nbsp;In the meantime we are to keep her on her current meds and connive keeping records of her headaches and episodes. &nbsp;We may even be able to wean her off the meds in a few months time if she has no more migraines (and MRI etc are clear) &nbsp;so some positives there :) &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The rest of the family is as per normal... a group of 3 hormonal, surly but sometimes amusing teenagers who have completed their relevant schooling years. &nbsp;Mr W has graduated primary school this year and onto high school next, Mr A has completed Middle school (year 10) and took out the grade IT and Woodworking achievement awards (Yay!!!) he is into senior school next year and pulling out all stops to get into the uni courses he wants to pursue. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">so that's a quick update... sure there's been other messes, laughs, tears, tantrums and giggles in and around... but like I said, I'm exhaustipated and my brain is completely fried so trying to remember everything is a stretch too much for this old duck at the moment ;) &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br />Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-26042356945823275192014-11-17T11:49:00.003+10:302014-11-17T12:14:43.315+10:30Madness week 1 is here... and Menu PlanningThis week we prepare for our weekend in Adelaide. &nbsp;the weekend itself should be nothing more than relaxing and listening to the waves, gulls and palms in the breeze as we put our feet up at Adelaide Shores Adventure Caravan Park... &nbsp;but the Friday and Monday surrounding the weekend are going to be busy busy... &nbsp;Not only are we doing the 500km trip to and from Adelaide but both days have medical appointments and we can't miss any of them!<br /><br />So this week is lots of housework, list making, packing, stressing (because that's what I seem to do best) and planning to make sure we haven't missed anything, any one or the likes ;) <br /><br />So menu planning this week is literally using up what we have and going to be for the fortnight starting from today (Monday). &nbsp;We don't want to do any big shops over the next week and a half while we are going to be in and out and away so boring, pantry staples it is going to be ;)<br /><br /><ul><li><div><b><span style="font-size: large;">MENU PLAN: November 19th - 26th</span></b></div><div><br /><br /><ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Monday:</b>&nbsp; Slow cooked Porcupine Meatballs and Pasta</li><li><b>&nbsp;Tuesday: &nbsp;</b><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/07/fettuccine-alfredo/" target="_blank">Pasta Alfredo&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;with Schnitzels</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Wednesday: </b>BBQ or Rissoles with Salad</li></ul></div><div><ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Thursday:&nbsp;</b><b>&nbsp;</b>Marinated Chicken with Steamed Veg</li><li>&nbsp;**&nbsp;<b>Friday:</b>&nbsp;On the Road - Takeaway? Maybe chicken and salad from Woolies</li><li>&nbsp;**&nbsp;<b>Saturday:</b>&nbsp;</li><ul><li>Lunch - &nbsp;Cold Meat and Salad Sandwiches</li><li>Dinner - BBQ with Pasta Salad and Coleslaw</li></ul><li>&nbsp;**&nbsp;<b>Sunday:</b></li><ul><li>Lunch - &nbsp;2 Minute Noodles</li><li>Dinner - &nbsp;BBQ with Salad</li></ul><li>&nbsp;**&nbsp;<b>Monday:</b>&nbsp; On the Road - Takeaway</li><li><b>&nbsp;Tuesday: &nbsp;</b>(Steve and Jess here)</li><ul><ul><ul><li><b>&nbsp;</b>BBQ with Salad lunch&nbsp;</li><li>Slow cooked Beef Casserole</li></ul></ul></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Wednesday: &nbsp;</b>Chicken Mignons with Steamed Veg<br /><br /><div><b>** Back up meal</b>: &nbsp;BBQ with Potato Salad</div></li></ul></div><br /><div><ul><li>Snacks/Recess:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/the-best-banana-bread-ever.html" target="_blank">Banana Bread</a>, <a href="http://bakeat350.blogspot.com.au/2008/04/taste-of-yellow-yellow-rose-sugar.html" target="_blank">Biscuits</a></li></ul><div><br /></div><div>** indicates day in Adelaide or on the road</div></div></li></ul>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-41787789364856754222014-11-09T14:45:00.001+10:302014-11-09T14:45:05.891+10:30So much to do....Madness, I tells ya, pure madness!!! <br /><br />The next month is going to take it's toll. &nbsp;2 trips to Adelaide, a Christmas Parade, Christmas organising, teenage school issues, My school stuff (or working out if it's even possible for me to study!) and then regular family life and dealing with our day to day things on top... <br /><br />List making is going to be the thing to get us through... <br /><br />A weekly list of general things.<br /><br />A Christmas preparation list.<br /><br />Adelaide trip lists x 2 - one for each trip<br /><br />Menu planning<br /><br />and kids therapy lists for both daily and weekly therapy and where we are going to squeeze it in!<br /><br />At the moment I'm feeling very out of control... &nbsp;I'm hoping woking out what needs doing, in what order and when will help us feel a smudge calmer and confident that we can complete this month with a little sanity left in reserve... &nbsp;Here's hoping!! <br /><br />Starting with &nbsp; &nbsp;<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">this weeks list... &nbsp;</span></b><br /><br /><b>Appts</b>:<br /><br /><ul><li>Monday&nbsp;</li><ul><ul><ul><li>9am - high school</li></ul></ul></ul><li>Tuesday</li><ul><ul><ul><li>2.30 Podiatry Mr T</li><li>4.30 - Millicent, Aleks lizard</li></ul></ul></ul><li>Wednesday&nbsp;</li><ul><ul><ul><li>12.45 primary school re autism SA visit</li><li>&nbsp;2.00 group therapy</li><li>&nbsp;3.30 groceries (Must take shopping list!!!)</li></ul></ul></ul><li>Thursday</li><ul><ul><ul><li>8.45 Paediatrician Miss A</li><li>11.30 Speech therapy Mr T and Mr D</li><li>4pm Rubys drop off Miss K</li></ul></ul></ul><li>Friday</li><ul><ul><ul><li>8am Rubys pick up Miss K</li><li>9am Drop Trixie-Belle at vet for de-sexing</li><li>10am Sensory Processing meeting</li></ul></ul></ul><li>Saturday</li><ul><ul><ul><li>11am Christmas Parade - Mt Gambier</li><li>School lunchbox baking</li></ul></ul></ul><li>Sunday</li><ul><ul><ul><li>Mamabake - Christmas puddings, dry mixes, vanilla paste and stocks</li></ul></ul></ul></ul><br /><div><b>To do</b>:</div><div><ul><li>Menu Plan</li><li>2.5 hr study block x 7</li><li>list for Adelaide medical appts</li><li>list for Special Childrens Christmas Party weekend</li><li>Update and organise Aerynns medical diary</li><li>Drops in Tobys ears</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Daily</b>:&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>Therapy Mr D - brushing 2-3 hourly, therapy box 20 mins, weighted therapy 10-15 mins, whole body activity 10-15 mins.</li><li>Sensory Play all children interested 20-30 mins/day</li><li>5-10 minutes AUSLAN with Mr T</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-64427913064180437532014-11-09T11:57:00.001+10:302014-11-09T11:57:40.821+10:30Photo-a-Day aka PAD<div style="text-align: justify;">I'm doing a "break" month this November... &nbsp;Mostly as it's becoming incredibly hectic with appointments and end of year organisational stuff (honestly it's because I've been lazy again!!!) &nbsp;I have promised myself to pick it up Dec 1 and run it into the new year. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I do have the rest of October to upload... I may do some images for Nov, but at the moment I have school, appointments, 2 trips to Adelaide (1000km round trips each!!) and a difficult situation with a teenage daughter to deal with... &nbsp;Looking forward to some more peaceful, calmer times where I can enjoy more without the stress!!! &nbsp;</div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-83568868664870078732014-11-08T22:33:00.000+10:302014-11-08T22:51:07.177+10:30A Speechless Life is Not Necessarily a Quiet Life<div style="text-align: justify;">We are coming to terms with the face that Toby has a complication which has so far rendered him to be non-verbal. &nbsp;For all intents and purposes he is otherwise a completely normal 20 month old baby boy. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8SDzMlaFiU/VF4Fu_zM68I/AAAAAAAAEwQ/JXnY1fGMPUQ/s1600/Sept%2B21%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8SDzMlaFiU/VF4Fu_zM68I/AAAAAAAAEwQ/JXnY1fGMPUQ/s1600/Sept%2B21%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8SDzMlaFiU/VF4Fu_zM68I/AAAAAAAAEwQ/JXnY1fGMPUQ/s1600/Sept%2B21%2BD.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>He laughs, cries, blows bubbles, runs, climbs (and OMG is he ever a climber!!!) &nbsp;He hugs, kisses and absolutely loves his siblings. &nbsp;We aren't sure, but our GP, paed and child health specialists all believe he may be deaf BUT he reads body language perfectly, he will get Aerynns dummy or sippy cup if she is upset or in pain and he has his own way of communicating with us what he wants. <br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Toby's life thus far has been speechless, but he communicates well. &nbsp;He can't understand what we say, but he knows when we are cross, happy, sad or even being silly. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Toby will remove his nappy when it is wet. &nbsp;If it is secured under clothes (to stop said removal LOL) he comes, grabs my hand and lays down on the ground in front of me patting his nappy indicating it is time for a change. &nbsp;Sometimes he will even bring me the clean replacement as well! &nbsp;Oh and if it is dirty he will pat the nappy, screw up his nose and make a grunting kind of hissing noise like he is indicating "yuck"&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Tobes lets us know when he wants a drink or something to eat. &nbsp;He is often seen raiding the cupboards for bowls for cereal, plates for dinner or toast or a cup for a drink. &nbsp;If he wants milk he will get the big 3 litre bottle from the fridge and struggle dragging it to wherever we might be - seriously the bottle is half his size! &nbsp;if he wants something he shouldn't have he will sidle up to us with the item behind his back, and he will work his puppy dog big brown eyes, begging without words for a little treat... and more often than not we give in to him. Yes we are suckers... Ok, &nbsp;I am the sucker ;) &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If he wants to look out the kitchen window to look at the chickens and ducks he will pull a chair up and come find me for help up (it's a high window so he usually grabs a stool which he can't climb all too well) whiles he is gesturing to the window he will grunt and move his mouth like he is talking to us. &nbsp;All animals make the same sound to Toby... &nbsp;he makes a sound similar to the ending of the word "duck" &nbsp;so it's kind of like he is saying "ugh ugh ugh" and that is for ALL animals... a dog goes "ugh ugh" &nbsp;the cat says "ugh ugh" and the chickens and ducks are "ugh ugh ugh ugh ugh ugh ugh!!!"&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ask Toby for a hug verbally and there is no response. &nbsp;Get his attention and open your arms wide and he is there with a huge squeeze in no time. &nbsp;He knows how to blow kisses (and give sloppy loves as well) &nbsp;and will play "hide and seek", wrestle and loves jumping on the trampoline with his siblings. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If there is a big noise outside, Toby won't turn to the noise. &nbsp;If it is close he will run to us for comfort. &nbsp;Is he feeling the vibrations under his feet or in his body? &nbsp;We just don't know... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-04r0dcivLyc/VF4FzFh4GnI/AAAAAAAAEwY/9yg4UmQkWxo/s1600/October%2B20%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-04r0dcivLyc/VF4FzFh4GnI/AAAAAAAAEwY/9yg4UmQkWxo/s1600/October%2B20%2BD.jpg" height="256" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Toby is far from quiet. &nbsp;Yes he plays silently, he has silent conversations where he moves his mouth but there is no sound, but other times he is LOUD! &nbsp;He yells, laughs, cries, screams, throws things, bangs, makes all kinds of noises... he just doesn't say any words... at all... a little babbling... mumumumum and the occasional bababababababa and odd dadadadada... but our speech therapists tell us they are simply developmental noises. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">They aren't words. &nbsp;They are primitive verbalisations. &nbsp;We need to be realistic. &nbsp;</div><br /><br /><span style="text-align: justify;">Honestly, we don't know what the future is going to be with Toby's communication. &nbsp;We don't know what he can hear, we don't know even if it is a hearing loss or something else. &nbsp;He has a full audiology assessment on November 24th. &nbsp;It's scary, we don't know what to expect... The experts are saying that other than severe hearing loss the other main reason for non-verbal children is autism, however our Mr T is not exhibiting any signs despite our strong family history of ASD. &nbsp;Maybe he will one day come up and start talking, and we won't even know it... we will just start talking with him, then it will dawn on us that Toby spoke! &nbsp;Wishful thinking?? &nbsp; Maybe he will require hearing aids or a cochlear implant to help him hear sound and start building a verbal form of communication. Then again maybe he will be speechless for life... But we do know that no matter what happens, he is a happy little man who communicates so well, and there are very few times that he doesn't get his point across. &nbsp;And no matter what happens we just love out littlest man, he is perfect in our eyes no matter what!</span><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: right;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-73228818146801781842014-11-04T14:22:00.000+10:302014-11-04T14:22:47.431+10:30Monday (ok, no it's not monday) Menu PlanningNo, it's not Monday, I know... yesterday was spent in town for appointments trying to get the oldest daughter right for school (augh!!) so once again Tuesday is becoming Monday and well. At least I'm planning! <br /><br /><br /><div><ul><li><div><b><span style="font-size: large;">MENU PLAN: October 30th - November 5th</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Thursday:&nbsp;</b><b>&nbsp;</b><a href="http://beyerbeware.net/2013/04/hunk-of-meat-monday-honey-mustard-bacon-chicken-tenders.html" target="_blank">Honey Mustard Bacon Chicken Tenders</a>&nbsp;with<b>&nbsp;</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.framedcooks.com/2009/07/pasta-with-brie-and-tomatoes.html" target="_blank">Pasta with Brie and Tomato</a></li><li>&nbsp;<b>Friday:</b>&nbsp;<b>&nbsp;</b><a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/chicken-parmigiana.html" target="_blank">Schnitzels</a>&nbsp;with<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/potato-bake.html" target="_blank">&nbsp;Potato Bake</a>&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Saturday:</b>&nbsp;</li><ul><li>Lunch - Toasties with cheese, tomato and ham</li><li>Dinner -&nbsp;BBQ with&nbsp;<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/03/my_most_favorite_salad_ever_ever_ever_ever/" target="_blank">Asian Noodle Salad</a></li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Sunday:</b></li><ul><li>Lunch -&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2010/09/pancakes.html" target="_blank">Pancakes</a></li><li>Dinner -&nbsp;Roast of the day (aka yet to be determined)&nbsp;with Baked Veg and Gravy</li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Monday:</b>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/main-dishes-vegetarian-recipes/vegetable-frittata/17306" target="_blank">Roast Veg Frittata</a>&nbsp;and Salad &nbsp;</li><li><b>&nbsp;Tuesday:&nbsp;</b>Chicken and Garlic Ravioli with&nbsp;<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/07/fettuccine-alfredo/" target="_blank">Alfredo Sauce</a></li><li>&nbsp;<b>Wednesday:&nbsp;</b><a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/recipes/chicken-and-chorizo-risotto/90077" target="_blank">Chicken and Chorizo Risotto</a><br /><br /><div><b>** Back up meal</b>: &nbsp;BBQ with Potato Salad</div></li></ul></div><br /><div><ul><li>Snacks/Recess:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/the-best-banana-bread-ever.html" target="_blank">Banana Bread</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.trtlmt.com.au/teeny-teddies/" target="_blank">Teeny Teddies</a></li></ul><div></div></div></li></ul></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-5662005406860288072014-10-27T11:06:00.000+10:302014-10-27T11:43:52.623+10:30Menu Plan Monday<div>We are starting to have warmer days meaning possibility of BBQ's woohoo!!! &nbsp;Also the family are enjoying changing things up with new recipes and flavours :) <br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">MENU PLAN: October 30th - November 5th</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Thursday:&nbsp;</b>BBQ with <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/03/my_most_favorite_salad_ever_ever_ever_ever/" target="_blank">Asian Noodle Salad</a></li><li>&nbsp;<b>Friday:</b>&nbsp;Tacos</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Saturday:</b>&nbsp;</li><ul><li>Lunch -&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/sauces-dips-spreads-recipes/chickendillred-onion-sandwich-spread/185207" target="_blank">Chicken, Dill and Red Onion creamy Sandwiches</a>&nbsp;(Yard work Day!)</li><li>Dinner - <a href="http://allrecipes.com.au/recipe/11212/easy-lasagne-in-the-slow-cooker.aspx" target="_blank">Slow Cooker&nbsp;Lasagne</a>&nbsp;and Wedges + Salad</li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Sunday:</b></li><ul><li>Lunch -&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2010/09/pancakes.html" target="_blank">Pancakes</a></li><li>Dinner - <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/332885/pot-roast" target="_blank">Pot Roast</a> with Baked Veg and Gravy</li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Monday:</b>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/chicken-parmigiana.html" target="_blank">Schnitzels</a> with<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/potato-bake.html" target="_blank"> Potato Bake</a></li><li><b>&nbsp;Tuesday:</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/main-dishes-meat-recipes/chinese-beef/107725" target="_blank">Chinese Beef</a> and <a href="http://recipes.coles.com.au/recipes/342/chinese-egg-noodle-and-vegetable-stir-fry/" target="_blank">Stir Fry</a></li><li>&nbsp;<b>Wednesday: </b><a href="http://beyerbeware.net/2013/04/hunk-of-meat-monday-honey-mustard-bacon-chicken-tenders.html" target="_blank">Honey Mustard Bacon Chicken Tenders</a>&nbsp;with<b>&nbsp;</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.framedcooks.com/2009/07/pasta-with-brie-and-tomatoes.html" target="_blank">Pasta with Brie and Tomato</a><br /><br /><br /><div><ul><li>Snacks/Recess:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.trtlmt.com.au/teeny-teddies/" target="_blank">Teeny Teddies</a>, <a href="https://www.recipecommunity.com.au/recipes/magic-bean-chocolate-cake/25751" target="_blank">Magic Bean Cake (muffins)</a></li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div><b>** Back up meal</b>: &nbsp;BBQ with Potato Salad<br /><br /><b>*** Mamabake Saturday and Sunday:</b>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://www.wholefoodiekitchen.com/2012/07/chicken-stock-paste.html" target="_blank">Chicken Stock Concentrate</a>, <a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/basics-recipes/beef-stock-concentrate/79073" target="_blank">Beef Stock Concentrate</a>&nbsp;and <a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/main-dishes-others-recipes/vegetable-stock/175346" target="_blank">Vege Stock</a> and &nbsp;<a href="http://mamabake.com/2014/10/18/10-home-made-dry-mix-recipes-never-buy-a-packet-again/" target="_blank">Dry Mixes </a>&nbsp;(Taco Mix, Gravy Mix, Choc Brownie Mix, Hot Choc Mix and Ovaltine Mix)<br /><br />****Mental note: Start preparing ingredients etc for <a href="http://www.nigella.com/recipes/view/ultimate-christmas-pudding" target="_blank">Christmas Pudding</a>s!!<br /><br /></div></li></ul></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-32094104295978801302014-10-27T10:04:00.001+10:302014-10-27T10:06:57.848+10:30Monday Monday...<div style="text-align: justify;">Monday blues digging in...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh and menu planning is about to start... &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We've had a horrible weekend... lots of friction and niggles happening. I can't blame the full moon either. &nbsp;It's left me feeling very flat and down this morning. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm at the point where I'm feeling very unsupported with my decision to do this diploma - to the point there was a comment that I didn't get permission to start it in the first place - I mean what the!?!?! &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyways... &nbsp;trying to schedule 15-20 hours into a week which is already packed with raising the children, dinner times, housework, Dommys therapy, Aerynns migraine treatment and documenting and being a solo parent most of these hours is almost insurmountable. &nbsp;I honestly don't know how I can think I can do it! I was going to the library on Saturdays when Mr A worked and that was successful... 5-6 hours of solitude and study... &nbsp;that's been taken away with Nathan now umpiring cricket... &nbsp;All I have now is Sunday and the library hours are skewed, and do I really need to take an hour out just to travel there to start with? &nbsp;Just so stressed and not wanting to make the wrong decision about whether to continue or not.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I think that's what has me down the most... I was looking forward to getting this diploma done, learning something new and forging a career I can manage from home no matter what the kids or life throw at me... &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">anyways, trying to be positive and perk up... It's miss K's 15th birthday today so hanging on as much as possible... &nbsp;routine might help... off to work out the menu for the week!&nbsp;</div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-5891864293692627452014-10-21T12:12:00.001+10:302014-10-21T12:12:49.571+10:30PAD Oct 8-14<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NabX0havhmk/VEWZ6Y4AQNI/AAAAAAAAEt4/1QUDAh1f72A/s1600/Oct%2B8%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NabX0havhmk/VEWZ6Y4AQNI/AAAAAAAAEt4/1QUDAh1f72A/s1600/Oct%2B8%2BD.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>October 8: H is for... Heavenly Hair</b></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It has taken a lot of patience for Aerynns hair to grow. &nbsp;It is so fine and brittle that it&nbsp;breaks as soon as you look at it so it would seem. &nbsp;It's taken 3 years for it to grown long enough to even brush her shoulders! &nbsp;We love her ringlets and that we can now do girly pony tails. &nbsp;Hopefully, with a little more patience (and maybe another 3 years worth of growth) we can start looking at braids!!!</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">~~~~~</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QzweoW7_uBI/VEWaEAREDuI/AAAAAAAAEuY/f8unFJP-P3E/s1600/Oct%2B9%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QzweoW7_uBI/VEWaEAREDuI/AAAAAAAAEuY/f8unFJP-P3E/s1600/Oct%2B9%2BD.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>October 9: &nbsp;I is for... International IRun4 Inspiration</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">IRun4 is a wonderful international organisation which pairs runners up with individuals (mostly children) who have limitations (probably the least complicated explanation). &nbsp;The whole group is one great big pool of inspiration, positivity and celebration of everyones milestones; be it as simple as learning to walk, having a few days without illness or a runner running their first 5k or a marathon. It started with a single pairing, and has grown into a wonderful group with thousands of matches, the <a href="http://www.whoirun4.com/" target="_blank">website</a> shares the full story so I won't go into it here. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Aerynn has been blessed with a gorgeous runner. &nbsp;She loves "My Emily" (as opposed to her big brothers girlfriends who is also an Emalee, for Aerynn she is "Aleks' Emalee") &nbsp;Around her birthday Aerynn received a beautiful package fro the USA with some medals Emily had received from some of her runs which she dedicated to Aerynn, as well as some photos (and a gift for her birthday - part of which is the skirt she is wearing in this photo) &nbsp;Aerynn loves the medals, and will hold them whenever she can, particularly when feeling a bit off, she will look at the photos telling us that this is her Emily who loves her all the way over the water &lt;3</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">There is also a sister group so family members who are the unsung heroes in families with individuals of additional needs can also be held up and celebrated. &nbsp;William has his own buddy through that group, Tammy is also from the USA.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Such a simple idea, a simple concept for a group but a while lot of inspiration fro some special children and some awesome runners who go out of their way to bring awareness and smiles all around the world. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">BTW, IRun4 is looking for families who would like to join the family. &nbsp;They have a list of runners who are eager to be matched to a buddy and start dedicating their runs and inspire each other - alternatively runners are always welcome to join. &nbsp;Please check the group out here:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.whoirun4.com/" target="_blank">Who I Run 4</a> or on Facebook here:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/irunformichael" target="_blank"> IRun4 Michael</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~~~~~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1xDtXs7Rj4/VEWZ7yPVM5I/AAAAAAAAEuA/c59LpnqaGPU/s1600/Oct%2B10%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1xDtXs7Rj4/VEWZ7yPVM5I/AAAAAAAAEuA/c59LpnqaGPU/s1600/Oct%2B10%2BD.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp; <b>October 10: &nbsp;J is for... Jumpin' Jehosaphat!!!</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Look what just hatched!!!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~~~~~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xMp3ndprH5w/VEWaCSrpwdI/AAAAAAAAEuQ/ZqC_sYnMhxs/s1600/October%2B11%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xMp3ndprH5w/VEWaCSrpwdI/AAAAAAAAEuQ/ZqC_sYnMhxs/s1600/October%2B11%2BD.jpg" height="256" width="320" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>October 11: K is for... Kahli!!!</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~~~~~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sN_T9sR2Kl0/VEWaBEIkAxI/AAAAAAAAEuI/ehkXuSnGaaA/s1600/October%2B12%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sN_T9sR2Kl0/VEWaBEIkAxI/AAAAAAAAEuI/ehkXuSnGaaA/s1600/October%2B12%2BD.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>October 12: L is for... Luscious Long Lashes on our Little Lassie</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~~~~~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UDkfD4155mQ/VEWaJMN5RFI/AAAAAAAAEug/4d-ToodbwWA/s1600/October%2B13%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UDkfD4155mQ/VEWaJMN5RFI/AAAAAAAAEug/4d-ToodbwWA/s1600/October%2B13%2BD.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>October 13: &nbsp;M is for... Managing Mealtime</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We have a family of magpies who brought their babies out of their nest for the time today and were teaching them to scratch and forage in the paddock behind us. &nbsp;Mr and Mrs Magpie are very placid for us, &nbsp;probably helps we allow them to come and finish off the chicken scraps and feed them the odd tidbit as well ;) &nbsp;It pays of though. &nbsp;They don't swoop us and will almost eat out of our hand and allow us super close (although we didn't even try to get close while their babies were out today!) &nbsp;Apparently they make a rather brilliant pet - not sure on the legalities of keeping a pet maggie though ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~~~~~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hd2Y9AJz9qs/VEWaJaxSxhI/AAAAAAAAEuk/huIi4IxqTq0/s1600/October%2B14%2BD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hd2Y9AJz9qs/VEWaJaxSxhI/AAAAAAAAEuk/huIi4IxqTq0/s1600/October%2B14%2BD.jpg" height="256" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>October 14: N is for... New Dress</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Aerynn was not quite sure about modelling in the crisp weather we were experiencing today though...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~~~~~</div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532967524697147550.post-12737434075047208632014-10-21T09:47:00.000+10:302014-10-27T10:13:38.687+10:30Menu Planning... again, not quite Monday...<div><div style="text-align: justify;">We had some great success with last weeks menu plan. &nbsp;The family absolutely loved the vegetable frittata and home made fettuccine Alfredo :) &nbsp;It was nice to know that my planning and searching for new recipes is paying off!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This week looks like a nightmare on paper with appointments etc so I'm going to give the online shopping another go. &nbsp;It's not our preferred supermarket, but sometimes we need to sacrifice the comfortable for the realistic ;) &nbsp;Here's hoping Woolies get our order right this week!!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">MENU PLAN: October 23-29th</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Thursday: </b><a href="http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/16053/porcupine+meatballs" target="_blank">Porcupines</a>&nbsp;with Mash</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Friday:</b>&nbsp;Homemade Pizza&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;<b>Saturday:</b>&nbsp;</li><ul><li>Lunch -&nbsp;<a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/sauces-dips-spreads-recipes/chickendillred-onion-sandwich-spread/185207" target="_blank">Chicken, Dill and Red Onion creamy Sandwiches</a></li><li>Dinner - <a href="http://www.recipecommunity.com.au/main-dishes-vegetarian-recipes/vegetable-frittata/17306" target="_blank">Roast Veg Frittata</a> and Salad</li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Sunday:</b></li><ul><li>Lunch -&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2010/09/pancakes.html" target="_blank">Pancakes</a></li><li>Dinner - Roast Chicken with Baked Veg and Gravy</li></ul><li>&nbsp;<b>Monday:</b>&nbsp; <a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/search?updated-max=2014-05-04T21:30:00-07:00&amp;max-results=7" target="_blank">Lasagne</a> and Wedges (Miss K's Birthday)</li><li><b>&nbsp;Tuesday:</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://quirkycooking.blogspot.com.au/2011/01/chicken-and-cashews-with-coconut-satay.html" target="_blank">Quirky's Cashew Chicken with Coconut Satay Rice</a></li><li>&nbsp;<b>Wednesday:</b>&nbsp;Slow Cooked Beef Casserole with Cous Cous<br /><br /><br /><div><ul><li>Snacks/Recess:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://mycookingfile.blogspot.com.au/2014/05/the-best-banana-bread-ever.html" target="_blank">Banana Bread</a>, <a href="http://www.trtlmt.com.au/teeny-teddies/" target="_blank">Teeny Teddies</a></li></ul><div><br /></div></div></li></ul></div>Katrinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17937756746503699652noreply@blogger.com0